Marbled Murrelet

Brachyramphus marmoratus

Related to puffins, the Marbled Murrelet is unique among this clan, as they nest high in trees. Though the species was first described in science in 1789, it was not until 1961 that the secret of their tree-nesting was discovered. Listed as “Threatened” in Canada in 1990 and in the USA in 1992, researchers believe logging is adversely affecting these birds’ nesting habitat. While most of these birds opt for trees to nest in, a small percentage of their population settle on talus slopes near the shore.

Considered awkward or clumsy on land, they have difficulty performing land-based take-offs. When faced with such situations, they may hike considerable distances in search of a suitable launching point.

These birds seem to prefer foraging for small fish, often in fiords and inland waterways. Even further offshore, they are commonly found in waters less than 200 feet deep.

Today, taxonomists regard the Marbled Murrelet as monotypic (there are no recognized subspecies).

In 2005, during my expedition through Canada and Alaska, I spent several enjoyable days in Seward (Alaska). There, I enjoyed meeting birds and other wildlife, including a few Marbled Murrelets.